Evanston Will Destroy Public Property to Keep it from Falling into Private Ownership

Chicago Tribune24 July 2018No Comment

Ater often-passionate public appeals at the Evanston City Council meeting Monday night, Evanston aldermen voted to move forward with demolition of a historic lakefront mansion by partnering with a local group that has offered to pay for the deconstruction.

Aldermen voted 5-3 to enter into a memorandum of understanding with Evanston Lakehouse Dunes, a group of neighbors that has offered to to pay for the removal of the 91-year old Harley Clarke Mansion and restore the grounds.

Nicole Kustock, spokeswoman for the Evanston Lighthouse Dunes group, argued at the meeting that demolishing the mansion would keep the property accessible to the public for the future.

“It removes the risk of privatization and keeps it open and free for all,” Komstok said during public comments.